Antwerp: a city that transforms events into experiences

Antwerp is a city where history meets innovation, where every corner tells a story, and where every event feels like a homecoming. Known for its central location in Europe, with easy access, its vibrant culture, rich history, and thriving contemporary scene, Antwerp offers more than just venues, it offers experiences. 

It is within this dynamic backdrop that the Antwerp Convention Bureau (ACB) operates, enhancing the city’s appeal as a prime destination for international conferences and events, and supporting conference and event organisers throughout the entire lifecycle of their work within the city.

“Antwerp extends beyond traditional by transforming the entire city into your venue.  In Antwerp, you don’t just rent a venue or book a hotel, you embrace an entire city," says Tadeja Pivc Coudyser, CEO of ACB. “This concept is brought to life through ACB's deep connections with both historic and innovative industries, ensuring that each event is interwoven with Antwerp's rich tapestry of experiences.”

Antwerp’s unique charm lies in its ability to offer an intimate, versatile setting combined with modern infrastructure and accessible offering. ACB plays a critical role in this by supporting organisers throughout every phase of their event, turning each gathering into a focal point of the city’s bustling life.

Ultimately, as described in Antwerp’s branding “the city is your venue…”

Impact and Legacy

Events in Antwerp resonate far beyond their immediate economic impact, contributing to a lasting legacy. A prime example is the forthcoming International Spinal Cord Society’s Annual Scientific Meeting ISCoS, scheduled for September 24. This event is particularly significant as it focuses on raising awareness about inclusivity and accessibility. With an expected attendance of 20 to 40 wheelchair users, a local working group has initiated efforts to enhance awareness among local partners, including hospitality providers, museums, and public transportation systems. This group provides essential tips and advice on communication, behaviour, and facility adaptations, aiming to create a genuinely inclusive atmosphere during the conference. Importantly, the insights and improvements developed for ISCoS are intended to benefit future conferences as well, with planned enhancements to accessible hotel room information on the ACB and City of Antwerp websites and collaboration with NMBS, the national rail company, to ensure ongoing accessibility advancements.

These events exemplify ACB's commitment to not only hosting events but also enhancing the city's long-term appeal and ensuring that the content and focus of an event filters across the whole of the city.  This ensures any event held in Antwerp doesn’t just take place, it leaves its mark and provides organisers with measurable long-term impact.

ACB’s collaborative approach is a cornerstone of this legacy success and is key in its ability to elevate event experiences. Just one example of such synergy is the upcoming World Children Theatre Festival in August 2026, organised by AITA/IATA and OPENDOEK, the Flemish Amateur Theatre Organisation, alongside an additional congress for art teachers. This city-wide event involves all local and regional stakeholders including theatre operators, and policymakers. The festival and congress aim to not only celebrate but also to significantly influence future policy and extend the reach of amateur theatre to communities less exposed to such cultural activities. In partnership with Visit Flanders and the event organiser, ACB is committed to creating a comprehensive network of support that enhances the cultural fabric of Antwerp and promotes sustained community involvement. 

Support for European Associations and Long-term Partnerships

The Antwerp Convention Bureau is deeply invested in supporting European associations seeking multi-year partnerships, especially in areas of innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. As a part of the Flanders Legacy Makers, the bureau strives to adapt this framework to Antwerp’s unique context, focusing on impactful community integration and sustainability practices. 

By collaborating closely with key local entities such as the Chamber of Commerce, University Hospital, and city governance, ACB is a connector and community builder. This approach not only inspires but also ensures that experiences extend beyond the conference room, embedding deeper values and leaving a lasting legacy on both the city and its visitors. Through these initiatives, ACB demonstrates a steadfast commitment to fostering innovative and sustainable event practices that resonate well beyond the immediate event timeline.

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Meet us at IMEX 2024

Visit Antwerp at booth E135, where you can connect with representatives from top venues such as: A Room with a ZOO and Handelsbeurs Antwerp; world leading hotels including Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, Hilton Antwerp Old Town, Radisson Blu Hotel, Antwerp City Centre and Mercure Antwerp City South & Centre; or their DMC partners JADA Events and Event Masters.  

In Antwerp, every conference or meeting is an opportunity to experience the city in its entirety. Let the Antwerp Convention Bureau help make your next event not just successful, but unforgettable. Reach out to the team to see how your event can become the main event in the vibrant setting of Antwerp.

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